Phinney Farmers Market Returns This Week

For many, Memorial Day weekend, with its grilling and promise of sunshine, marks the true beginning of Summer. For Seattleites, who rarely get so lucky as to have a warm and dry day by the end of May, it’s the return of the neighborhood farmers market that truly kicks off the sunny season. This Friday, summer comes to Phinney.

Photo courtesy of the Seattle Farmers Markets.

The Phinney Farmers Market, which usually runs from late May until early October, is getting a bit of a late start this year; though for many farmers, who have experienced heavy rainfall and a chilly Spring, the extra time to gather and grow may come as a blessing.

No vendor list has been made available yet, so there’s no word on who’s returning, or what the market will have on-hand for opening day. Traditionally a leaner crowd, the market usually reaches full swing in the middle of the month.

And this year, according to its Facebook page, the market will be migrating to the PNC’s upper lot, and will allow dogs within the market itself.

At the end of last year’s season, in an attempt to improve the experience, the market conducted an online survey for neighborhood residents and shoppers, to help gather information about consumer demand and desires. It remains to be seen what changes, if any, will spur from the survey, which is still available.

One offering which won’t be on the menu just yet, however, is booze. Earlier this year, the Senate passed a bill which gave the green light to beer and wine tastings at Washington State’s farmers markets, however, the law doesn’t take effect until July 2012. This pilot program will be overseen by the Washington State Liquor Control Board. However, despite the possibility of drink, the Phinney Farmers Market is have plenty of other enjoyable elements and edibles.